What Makes a Good Explainer Video Script? (With Examples)
Writing a great explainer video script is part storytelling, part strategy, and part editing. It’s not just about what you want to say. It’s about what your audience needs to hear—and how quickly you can get to the point.
Whether you’re writing it yourself or working with a video partner, understanding how to structure and simplify your message is the most important part of the process. Here’s how to do it.
Why the Script Matters More Than the Animation
Animation gets attention, but the script drives action. You can have stunning visuals, but if your message is unclear, too long, or focused on the wrong thing, your video won’t work.
A strong script gives your video:
Structure and flow
A clear takeaway
The right tone for your audience
A focused call to action
In other words, it’s the foundation of the entire video.
The 5-Part Explainer Script Formula
Most great explainer video scripts follow a simple structure:
1. Hook
Start with the problem your audience cares about. Speak directly to what they’re feeling or experiencing.
Example:
“Struggling to keep track of your tasks and deadlines?”
2. Introduce the Solution
Now show them how your product or service solves that problem.
Example:
“TaskBoard helps you organize everything in one simple, visual dashboard.”
3. How It Works
Walk them through how it works. Keep it simple and avoid jargon.
Example:
“Just drag, drop, and check off tasks as you go. It’s built for busy teams who need clarity fast.”
4. Why It Works or What Makes It Different
Share a key benefit, stat, or feature that gives confidence.
Example:
“Trusted by over 10,000 teams, TaskBoard saves users an average of 4 hours per week.”
5. Call to Action
Tell the viewer exactly what to do next.
Example:
“Start your free trial today and get organized in minutes.”
Script Tips for Better Results
Write for the ear, not the page. Read it out loud to check the pacing and tone.
Use short sentences. Keep ideas tight and digestible.
Cut the fluff. Every word should earn its place.
Speak directly to one person. Use “you” instead of “we.”
Aim for 130–150 words per minute. That means a 60-second video should be around 150 words.
Common Script Mistakes to Avoid
Starting with your company history instead of the viewer’s problem
Trying to say everything in one video
Using technical language or buzzwords
Writing like a brochure instead of a conversation
Forgetting the call to action
Want to See It in Action?
Here’s a sample 60-second script for a fictional productivity app:
Hook:
“Feeling buried in to-do lists and sticky notes?”
Solution:
“Meet FocusFlow, the app that helps you organize your day with clarity.”
How It Works:
“Create a new plan every morning, set realistic goals, and track your wins in real time.”
Why It Works:
“FocusFlow users complete 35 percent more tasks per week—and actually feel good doing it.”
Call to Action:
“Try it free and see the difference by the end of the week.”
Final Thoughts
If you want a great explainer video, start with a great script. Focus on your audience’s needs, keep it tight, and lead with clarity.
Need help crafting your message? We help clients shape their scripts every day—and we’d love to help you too.
